What the TM168BEVCME is in a panel
The TM168BEVCME is the Schneider Electric Modicon M168 application-specific expansion module built to drive an electronic expansion valve, with an expansion bus port for stacking against the M168 logic controller base. The listing carries IP20, meaning the module is intended for a closed, DIN-rail-mounted control cabinet — not a washdown or outdoor enclosure.
I/O map and what the ratings drive
On the analogue side the module accepts one input that covers 0...10 V, 0...5 V ratio, 0...20 mA or 4...20 mA, plus Pt 1000 from -100...400 °C and an NTC 10k probe from -50...+120 °C, so a single channel handles the suction-side temperature probe plus a ratio signal without a separate transmitter. Discrete input count is 2 non-isolated plus 1 isolated channel, fed from 100...240 V AC/DC, and the discrete output handles up to 5,000 mA at 250 V AC — the rating an installer reads before sizing the stepper/valve driver wiring and the upstream contactor or SSR. A 12 V AC/DC sensor power rail feeds the probe loop, and the volt-free contact usage means the module itself does not source the field voltage — that simplifies wiring to a dry-contact pressure switch or thermostat.
Environmental envelope and compliance
Operating temperature runs -10...60 °C with storage down to -25...60 °C, relative humidity 10...90 % non-condensing, and 0...2000 m altitude — the standard refrigeration-panel envelope, not a rooftop or condensing-unit outdoor install. Pollution degree 2 and overvoltage category III define the cabinet cleanliness and impulse-voltage exposure the module is designed against, and it carries the UL and CE markings under EN 60730-1, EN 61000-6-3, EN 61000-6-1, the 2006/95/EEC LV Directive, and UL 60730.
Lifecycle reality — obsolete, sourced to order
The TM168BEVCME is listed obsolete with lifecycle stage flagged eol_hot, so the official channel is closed and any units on a working M168 rack now come from independent surplus rather than factory stock.